Becoming a dad changes a man instantly — and in this episode, I get to watch that transformation in my own son. Brandon and I talk honestly about the moment Mabel arrived, the joy, the weight, the wonder, and how God equips ordinary men for extraordinary love. We explore serving your wife through pregnancy, learning as you go, and why this sacred calling is both gift and responsibility. If you’re a new dad or expecting one, this episode holds special value.

In this episode, Mike shares one of his most personal stories yet—the pain of growing up without an engaged or affectionate father, and the redemptive journey of discovering what true fatherhood looks like through God Himself.
It’s a story of healing, forgiveness, and transformation—how being fathered by God can empower you to become for your children what you never had for yourself.
If you’ve ever carried wounds from your past or wondered how to break the cycle, this one’s for you.

Your voice as a father does more than correct or instruct—it shapes identity. In this episode, Dr. Mike Ayers unpacks the lasting impact of a dad’s words, weaving together personal stories, biblical insight, and practical psychology to show how affirmation builds strength while careless words leave wounds that echo for years. Discover how to speak life into your children, even if you've blown it before, and learn how your voice becomes their inner voice.

Baseball, faith, and fatherhood all share one thing—perspective. In this Father Friend episode, Dr. Mike Ayers sits down with Kansas City Royals scout and longtime coach Darwin Pennye to talk about how sports can shape character, build connection, and reveal a father’s heart. For dads raising kids in athletics, this conversation reminds us that winning isn’t the goal—relationship is. This episode is a must listen for any dad with kids in sports.

Every child longs to know they are enough. In this Father Friend episode, Dr. Mike Ayers explores how a father’s vision and voice shape a child’s identity, either building insecurity through conditional love or cultivating unshakable worth through unconditional love. Through real-life stories, biblical insight, and practical wisdom, discover how to see your kids as lovable, capable, and uniquely designed by God. Learn how your words and presence can echo the Father’s voice: “I choose you.”

Every dad has authority—but how you use it determines whether your kids follow from fear or trust. In this Father Friend episode, Dr. Mike Ayers unpacks the difference between positional leadership and personal leadership, showing how true influence comes through character, connection, and Christ-like servant leadership. Discover why authority isn’t about control, but about discipleship, credibility, and love. Learn how to lead your children’s hearts, not just their behavior.

In the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, Dr. Mike Ayers reminds dads that courage isn’t built in comfort—it’s forged in risk, failure, and persistence. In this Father Friend episode, he unpacks why modern parenting often sidelines courage and what dads can do to restore it in their kids. From stopping the rescue reflex to modeling bravery, instilling vision, teaching kids to manage fear, and encouraging them to stand out rather than blend in, this episode equips fathers with practical tools to raise strong sons and daughters inspiring them to live boldly in today’s world as difference-makers.

What happens when a bestselling thriller author opens up about being a dad? In this special episode of the Father Friend podcast, Dr. Mike Ayers sits down with New York Times bestselling author Marc Cameron—known for his work on seven Tom Clancy novels and his own Arliss Cutter series. Together, they dive into the world of writing, discipline, and creativity while exploring the deeper role of fatherhood. Marc shares personal stories, insights, and lessons learned as both a writer and a father. It’s a candid, encouraging conversation you won’t want to miss. [marccameronbooks.com]